From Nigeria to Japan: How Oluwaseyi Ajala Earned a Fully Funded PhD in Chemistry at Hiroshima University with the MEXT Scholarship

My name is Oluwaseyi Aderemi Ajala, and I am from Nigeria. In March 2025, I graduated with a Doctorate in Applied Chemistry from Hiroshima University, Japan. My interest in polymer chemistry began during my bachelor’s studies, where I worked on the synthesis of polymers from biomass, specifically using Carica papaya seed oil. This early exposure sparked a lasting passion for sustainable materials development. Pursuing advanced studies in this field allowed me to deepen my expertise and contribute to research focused on sustainability and the development of functional materials for a better future.

MEXT Scholarship Details

My Ph.D. studies at Hiroshima University, Japan were fully funded by the Japanese Government Monbukagakusho (MEXT) Scholarship. This prestigious award is one of the most competitive and internationally recognized scholarships offered by the Government of Japan, attracting top-tier candidates from around the world.

Selection for the Monbukagakusho (MEXT) Scholarship is highly merit-based and overseen by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) of Japan. The process involves rigorous evaluations of academic excellence, research potential, and leadership qualities. This comprehensive scholarship covered full tuition and entrance examination wavier, provided a monthly stipend of 145,000 yen, and included round-trip international airfare.

Educational Background

Prior to my doctoral studies in Japan, I earned a Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Chemistry from the University of Ibadan, Nigeria, and a Master’s degree in Environmental Science from Punjabi University, India. My master’s studies were fully funded by the Government of India’s ICCR Scholarship, a prestigious and competitive award that covers round-trip airfare, a full tuition waiver, and provides a monthly stipend of ₹20,000. Being selected for this scholarship laid a strong foundation for my continued success in global research environments.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to Institutions?

The application process for the Monbukagakusho (MEXT) Scholarship is closely tied to the selection of a host institution and research group. As part of the application, you are required to identify your intended university and prospective research supervisor in advance. To prepare, I carefully reviewed the research profiles of faculty members across various Japanese universities to find a group whose work aligned with my academic background and research interests. Once I identified a suitable research group, I contacted the professor to discuss the possibility of joining their lab and obtained his acceptance, which is an essential part of the MEXT application process.

How did you find your information? Also, did you take any standardized tests?

For the Monbukagakusho (MEXT) Scholarship, I gathered information primarily through “Study in Japan” websites, personal blogs, and Reddit forums, where past recipients shared their experiences and practical application tips. These resources were instrumental in helping me understand the application timeline, required documents, and effective strategies for contacting prospective supervisors. Regarding standardized tests, submission of English proficiency scores such as TOEFL or IELTS is optional for MEXT applicants whose previous education was conducted in English. Since all my prior academic programs were fully taught in English, I was exempted from submitting any English language test scores. However, applicants from non-English-speaking backgrounds may be required to submit them, depending on the specific requirements of the host university.

How Did You Prepare to apply for the MEXT?

To prepare for the Monbukagakusho (MEXT) Scholarship, I began by thoroughly researching application tips and success stories. I joined several online communities, including Facebook and Reddit groups, where I read testimonials and advice from past recipients. These insights helped me better understand the expectations and structure of a strong application.

Knowing that the MEXT application requires a well-defined research plan, I dedicated significant time to developing a clear, feasible, and relevant proposal that aligned with both my academic background and the research focus of prospective supervisors in Japan. I then identified universities and research groups that matched my goals and reached out to professors whose work aligned with my interests. Securing an informal acceptance from a host professor was a critical step that significantly strengthened my application. Additionally, I prepared a strong academic CV, obtained a recommendation letter from my former Head of Department, and ensured that all supporting documents—including academic transcripts and certificates—were properly certified and submitted before the deadline.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

I believe my application stood out because of my prior research experience, which included publishing three peer-reviewed research articles, and my ability to present clear and focused academic goals. These demonstrated my readiness for advanced study and a strong commitment to contributing meaningfully to my field. Additionally, the quality of my research proposal, my academic background in polymer and sustainable chemistry, and a well-organized application package likely contributed to making my application competitive for the MEXT Scholarship.

What Would You Have Done Differently if You Are Going Through the Process Again?

Nothing really

What Advice Would You Give to Those Looking to Apply for a Similar Scholarship?

First, I recommend finding an online community—such as Facebook groups or Reddit forums—where past and current applicants share experiences and advice. These platforms can provide valuable insight and encouragement throughout the application process. Next, read the official application guidelines carefully to understand all requirements, deadlines, and documentation. Pay close attention to the format and expectations for the research proposal, as this is often one of the most critical components. It’s also important to research potential host universities and supervisors whose work aligns with your academic background and future goals. Reaching out to professors early to discuss your interests can significantly strengthen your application. Finally, stay organized, start early, and seek feedback on your documents from mentors or peers. A well-prepared and focused application that clearly communicates your goals and qualifications will stand out.